The NWSL is preparing for kickoff, announcing on-field rule changes, administrative updates, and logistical shifts ahead of the league's 2026 season opener on Friday.
The league officially set this year's salary cap at $3.7 million after accounting for revenue sharing, with Wednesday's press release also laying out the bonus structure for both 2026 team accomplishments and individual NWSL awards.
The NWSL is also expanding its use of RefCam this season, as well as incorporating in-stadium VAR announcements popular with international tournaments.
Additionally, the league is adjusting goalkeeper timeouts, instituting rules to prevent teams from receiving extra tactical instruction when an injured goalie receives on-field treatment.
The rulebook now states that during goalkeeper injury stoppages, players from either team may not approach the technical area under threat of discipline, instead staying put or gathering at the midfield circle.
In addition to dropping rule changes, Wednesday saw NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman lay out the league's expansion plans in her season kickoff address, with the now-16-team league gearing up to announce an 18th club later this year.
That new franchise will join the previously announced Atlanta-based team in making their NWSL debuts in 2028, the first year of a new league media rights deal.
"We have been intentional about extending the ramp-up period for all of our expansion teams," Berman told media on Wednesday. "We have a dozen or so groups that we are continuing to talk to and, depending on their readiness, will help inform our strategy beyond team 18."
